In Defense of Slytherin

Because I’m in my twenties and am still waiting on my Hogwarts letter, okay?

For a long time I lied to myself by thinking I was Ravenclaw. I love to read, write, and I never had a problem with school… but my heart knew the truth. Slytherins get a bad rap, I get it, but I’m here to tell you that team green is as good as gold.

1. Slytherins are ambitious.

I know exactly what I want and when I want it. I make goals and I stick to them. Self-motivation is half the battle. Who says ambition is a character flaw?

2. Slytherins are family-oriented.

Unlike Hufflepuffs who have a large group of friends, Slytherins are fiercely loyal to a select few. They know how to look out for their own.

3. Slytherins are planners.

They think before they speak and they think before they act to weigh out all possible outcomes. We are not Gryffindors who brazenly charge into battle. Us Slytherins will consult our bullet journals to plan our next move.

4. Slytherins make due with what they have.

Slytherins know how to use their resources to fit their needs. Snakes are flexible and can adapt to their environment, and so too can Slytherins adapt to any situation at hand.

5. Slytherins are natural-born leaders.

Whether it be a class project or navigating in a new city, I always take on the leadership role. I feel most comfortable when I’m in control.

6. Their common room is under the lake.

What better way to connect with nature than to look out your window to see fish swimming about? The dungeon aesthetic is so hot right now.

7. Ravenclaws aren’t the only clever bunch.

While Ravenclaws are traditionally book smart, Slytherins are people smart. They know how to read people’s vibes and ask the right questions. It’s a skill I’ve found useful in journalism.

8. You might call it narcissism, I call it a healthy dose of self-confidence.

At the end of the day, all you can rely on is yourself. The Slytherin values encourage self-love, self-preservation, and confidence. I think that’s something we all work on.

9. Slytherins are brave too, but know when to pull back.

As Phineas Nigellus Black says, “We Slytherins are brave, yes, but not stupid. For instance, when given the choice, we will always choose to save our own necks”.

10. Their official colors are way cool.

I’m a green-eyed girl who looks fantastic in cool green tones, where else would I possibly belong?